A Message from the President

By: Bill Rouse, President, LA Yellow Cab

Every year, our industry reaches a moment when conversation must give way to action. For The Transportation Alliance, that moment is our Legislative Fly-In. In 2026, as we gather in Washington, D.C., we do so not simply as business owners or operators, but as advocates for an industry that moves millions of people every day. The Fly-In is where our collective voice becomes real—where we sit across from lawmakers and ensure they understand the direct connection between public policy and the essential transportation services our members provide.

The work we do matters. It matters to the patient who needs a ride to dialysis, to the worker commuting to a job, and to communities that depend on flexible, reliable transportation options. Yet too often, the realities of our industry are not fully understood in the policymaking process. That is why showing up, telling our story directly, clearly, and with purpose, is so important. The Fly-In is not symbolic. It is impactful.

One of the most pressing issues we will address this year is fraud, waste, and abuse in Non-Emergency Medical Transportation. NEMT is a critical lifeline for millions of Americans, but like any large program, it is vulnerable to misuse. Bad actors not only drain resources but also undermine confidence in a system that patients depend on. Our message to lawmakers is straightforward: accountability must be strengthened, but it must be done in a way that supports legitimate providers who are delivering high-quality service every day. We are committed to protecting the integrity of NEMT, and we are equally committed to ensuring that reforms do not unintentionally disrupt access for the people who need these services most.

Passenger safety is another issue that sits at the core of everything we do. Our industry has always prioritized safety, but today we have new tools that can enhance it even further. In-vehicle camera systems are one of those tools. They provide an added layer of protection for both passengers and drivers, deter inappropriate behavior, and offer critical documentation when incidents occur. As we engage with policymakers, we will emphasize the importance of supporting the responsible use of this technology. Done right, it builds trust, increases transparency, and reinforces the professionalism of our industry.

At the same time, we must continue to look forward. The future of mobility is evolving rapidly, and microtransit is a key part of that evolution. Technology-enabled, on-demand transportation services are helping to fill gaps left by traditional fixed-route systems, particularly in underserved and rural communities. Our members are already leading in this space, providing innovative solutions that are both cost-effective and responsive to passenger needs. Federal policy should recognize and support this progress, not create barriers that slow it down. The Fly-In gives us the opportunity to ensure that lawmakers understand the value our industry brings to the future of mobility.

I encourage every member of our industry to take part in this effort. Your voice, your perspective, and your experience are what make our advocacy meaningful. The more we show up, the stronger our message becomes.

In 2026, we have an opportunity to shape the future of transportation in a way that supports innovation, strengthens accountability, enhances safety, and preserves the flexibility that our industry depends on. That opportunity starts with being present.

Let’s make sure our voices are heard.

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